Cathedral Engagement Rings

A: Choosing between white gold and platinum for your engagement ring is a personal decision that depends on your individual preferences and budget. Here are some things to consider:

White gold is a popular choice for engagement rings because it has a bright and shiny appearance that resembles platinum, but is typically more affordable. It is made by mixing gold with other metals, such as nickel, palladium, or silver, to create an alloy that has a white or grayish hue. One advantage of white gold is that it is relatively easy to maintain and can be easily resized if needed.

Platinum, on the other hand, is a rare and precious metal that is naturally white in color and has a luxurious, high-end look. It is a popular choice for engagement rings because it is extremely durable and resistant to tarnish, making it a great choice for people with an active lifestyle. It is also hypoallergenic, making it a good option for people with sensitive skin.

However, platinum is generally more expensive than white gold due to its rarity and durability. It is also heavier than white gold, which can make it feel more substantial on the finger.

Ultimately, the best choice for your engagement ring depends on your personal preferences and budget. If you prioritize durability and can afford the higher price tag, platinum may be the way to go. If you are looking for a more affordable option that still has a bright and shiny appearance, white gold may be a good choice. Either way, both white gold and platinum can make beautiful and timeless engagement rings that will be cherished for years to come.

A: Choosing between 9K and 18K gold largely depends on your personal preferences and budget. Here are some things to consider:

9K gold contains 37.5% pure gold, while 18K gold contains 75% pure gold. The remaining percentages in each alloy are made up of other metals, such as copper, silver, or nickel. As a result, 18K gold is more expensive than 9K gold.

One advantage of 9K gold is that it is more durable and less prone to scratches and dents. This is because the other metals in the alloy make it harder and more resistant to wear and tear. On the other hand, 18K gold is softer and may require more maintenance to keep it looking its best.

In terms of color, 9K gold has a more yellowish hue, while 18K gold has a deeper, richer color. Some people prefer the brighter look of 9K gold, while others appreciate the more luxurious appearance of 18K gold.

Ultimately, the best option for you depends on your individual preferences and budget. If you prioritize durability and affordability, 9K gold may be the better choice. If you want a richer color and are willing to invest more, 18K gold may be the way to go. Whichever option you choose, both 9K and 18K gold can make beautiful and timeless jewelry pieces that you can cherish for years to come.

A: White gold is rhodium plated to enhance its color and durability. Unlike pure gold, which has a warm yellow color, white gold is made by mixing gold with other metals, such as nickel, palladium, or silver, to create an alloy that has a white or grayish hue.

However, over time, white gold may start to show a yellowish tint, especially if it comes into contact with certain chemicals or if it undergoes normal wear and tear. To restore its bright white appearance, jewelers will apply a thin layer of rhodium plating to the surface of the white gold.

Rhodium is a precious metal that has a bright white color and is extremely hard and durable. By plating white gold with rhodium, it not only gives the jewelry a fresh and bright appearance, but it also provides a protective barrier against scratches, tarnishing, and other forms of damage.

In summary, rhodium plating is used to enhance the beauty and longevity of white gold jewelry.

A: Choosing the right diamond shape for your engagement ring is a personal decision that depends on your individual style and preferences. Here are some things to consider when selecting a diamond shape:

Personal style: The shape of the diamond can say a lot about your personal style. If you prefer a classic and timeless look, a round diamond may be the way to go. If you like something more modern and edgy, a square or rectangular-shaped diamond like an emerald or princess cut might be a better fit.

Finger shape and size: The shape and size of your finger can also play a role in choosing the right diamond shape. If you have shorter fingers, a pear or marquise-shaped diamond can help elongate the appearance of your finger. If you have longer fingers, a round or cushion cut diamond may complement your finger shape nicely.

Budget: Certain diamond shapes may be more expensive than others due to their rarity or popularity. Round diamonds, for example, are the most popular and tend to be priced higher than other shapes. If budget is a concern, consider a less popular shape, such as an oval or cushion cut, which may be more affordable.

Ring setting: The type of ring setting you choose can also impact the appearance of the diamond. A solitaire setting, which features a single diamond, is a classic and timeless choice that can work well with any shape. A halo setting, which features a ring of smaller diamonds around a center stone, can enhance the brilliance of a round or square-shaped diamond.

Ultimately, the right diamond shape for your engagement ring comes down to your personal style, finger shape and size, budget, and ring setting preferences. By considering these factors and working with a reputable jeweler, you can find the perfect diamond shape that will make your engagement ring truly special.

A: Yes, Ralph Jacobs offers a unique service of jewelry custom designing, where customers can have their own personalized pieces of jewelry created according to their specific preferences and specifications. This service allows customers to choose the type of material, style, design, and other aspects of the jewelry that they want. The end result is a customized piece of jewelry that is unique and tailored to the customer's individual tastes. With this service, customers have the opportunity to bring their creative ideas to life and have a jewelry piece that truly reflects their individuality. For more information click here.

A: The cost of an engagement ring can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the type of metal, the quality and size of the diamond, and the overall design and craftsmanship of the ring. Here are some rough estimates to give you an idea of the average cost of an engagement ring:

Traditional Diamond Engagement Ring: A traditional diamond engagement ring typically features a round diamond with a simple metal band. The average cost for a 1-carat diamond engagement ring with a platinum or white gold band is around R80,000 to R100,000. However, the price can range anywhere from a few thousand rands to tens of thousands of rands depending on the quality of the diamond.

Lab Grown Diamonds Engagement Rings: The cost of a lab-grown diamond engagement ring can vary depending on the size, quality, and design of the ring. On average, a 1-carat lab-grown diamond engagement ring can cost anywhere from R30,000 to R70,000, which is significantly less expensive than a natural diamond of the same size and quality. However, the price of lab-grown diamonds can still vary widely depending on the specific characteristics of the diamond, such as color and clarity.

Moissanite Enagement Rings: A moissanite engagement ring can be a great alternative to a diamond ring, especially for those on a budget. The cost of a 1-carat moissanite engagement ring with a platinum or white gold band can range from around R10,000 to R30,000, depending on the quality of the moissanite and the overall design of the ring. Compared to a traditional diamond engagement ring, this can be a significant cost savings.

Custom Engagement Ring: If you're looking for a unique engagement ring, a custom design may be the way to go. The cost of a custom engagement ring will depend on the materials used, the design complexity, and the amount of time it takes to create the ring. A custom engagement ring can range from a few thousand rands to tens of thousands of rands or more.

Ultimately, the cost of an engagement ring is a personal decision that depends on your budget and the type of ring you are looking for. Ralph Jacobs will assit you in finding the best option for your burdget.